A few years back I had thought of re-creating photographically one of the most famous illustrated images of dogs, but put it aside as slightly torturous. Until.
Sydney Dogs and Cats Home via agency M&C Saatchi Sydney asked numerous photographers to do what ever they wanted with three animals from the home, with the resulting images displayed on donated advertising space around Sydney promoting the prints being auctioned off.
“The Hustler” by Arthur Sarnoff was one of the best selling prints of the 50’s in America.
Its an image seen in peoples back pool rooms in suburban houses around the western world.
It has become synonymous with tacky kitchy mass purchased art.
Oddly, this is not the first ( and certainly not the last of Dogs imagery ). There was also a series of Dogs playing pool and Dogs playing Poker by C.M Coolidge dating back to the early 20th century.
The images are displayed around Sydney In May June 2011 as metrolights on donated ad spaces.
So, animals drinking, smoking and gambling on adverting hordings.
Many thanks to Limehouse Retouching House for their help and understanding.